Things To Do
in Naval
Naval is the capital town of Biliran province in the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines, serving as the island’s main port and commercial center. It’s a low‑rise coastal town with a laid‑back pace, friendly locals, and easy access to beaches, island viewpoints and waterfalls around Biliran. The town’s economy revolves around fishing, small‑scale agriculture and services for visitors traveling between Leyte and Biliran.
Naval is a good base for exploring nearby islands like Sambawan, hiking the volcanic peaks of Biliran and sampling fresh seafood at local markets and seaside eateries.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Naval and settle into your accommodation, soaking in the fresh coastal air. After unpacking, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque beaches to get acquainted with the serene atmosphere. Grab a hearty breakfast at a local eatery, savoring traditional Filipino dishes.
Visit the Naval Cathedral, a stunning architectural gem that showcases the area's rich history and culture. Engage with friendly locals at the nearby market, where you can discover unique handicrafts and fresh produce. Spend some time at the Naval Port, enjoying the views of the bustling harbor and enjoying some local ice cream.
Watch the sunset over the water, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink for a perfect photo opportunity. Dine at a beachfront restaurant, relishing fresh seafood while listening to the soothing sounds of waves. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the shore, reflecting on your new surroundings.
Set off to Biri Island via a local boat, ready for an adventure in this stunning destination. Upon arrival, explore the unique rock formations that have been sculpted by the sea and are truly breathtaking. Capture pictures and take in the stunning views of the coastline and surrounding waters.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach, surrounded by the natural beauty of the island. Take a swim in the clear waters before embarking on a hike to one of the island's scenic viewpoints. Discover the island's diverse wildlife, including unique birds and marine life, as you explore.
Return to Naval and unwind after an exciting day. Tonight, taste local delicacies at a popular restaurant, where you can indulge in a variety of culinary treats. Share stories with fellow travelers or locals about your day’s adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍚Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🛏️Budget guesthouse / simple hotel (per night) | $15-40 |
| 🛺Short tricycle ride / local transport | $0.20-0.70 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.50-1.00 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to islands, beaches and waterfalls — a great base for nature activities.
- Fresh, affordable seafood and authentic provincial Filipino food.
- Laid‑back, friendly local atmosphere with low tourist crowds.
- Limited tourist infrastructure and few upscale accommodation options.
- Card and digital payment acceptance is limited — cash is essential.
- Weather (typhoon season) can disrupt travel plans and ferry services.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Tagpila ini?" - How much is this?
- "Diin ang pantalan / pier?" - Where is the pier?
- "Pwede ko magbayad cash?" - Can I pay in cash?
Places to Visit in Naval
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful fishing boats, morning fish auctions and sunset views make the port a lively spot for candid and coastal photography.
A short climb on the island rewards photographers with panoramic views of turquoise waters, jagged rock formations and surrounding islets — ideal for sunrise or midday shots.
The Naval Public Market offers vibrant scenes of produce, seafood and daily commerce — great for street and food photography with close interaction opportunities with vendors.
Nearby waterfalls and forested trails provide opportunities for nature shots, long‑exposure water photos and botanical close‑ups; bring a waterproof bag for gear.
Low‑rise coastal views and silhouettes of fishermen and boats are beautiful during golden hour — perfect for wide‑angle and silhouette photography.
Food in Naval
Naval Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Filipino ceviche made with raw fish or shellfish cured in vinegar or calamansi, mixed with onion, ginger, chili and coconut or coconut milk in some local versions; commonly found at market stalls and seaside eateries.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught fish, squid or shrimp simply salted and grilled over charcoal; best at seaside carinderias near the port.
A simple clear fish soup with ginger, green papaya or sayote and local greens — warming and common in home kitchens and small restaurants.
Sun‑dried fish (danggit or similar) eaten for breakfast with rice and vinegar — readily available at the market.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The best place to find fresh seafood straight off the boats, local produce and small snack stalls selling grilled skewers, fried banana, rice snacks and freshly brewed coffee.
Simple stands and carinderias near the pier serving grilled catches, kinilaw and rice plates — perfect for budget meals and observing daily life.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use polite language, greet older people first when entering a home and show deference in conversation; simple greetings and a smile go a long way.
Dress modestly when visiting churches, barangay halls or family homes — avoid overly revealing clothing in conservative settings.
When offered food or small items, it’s polite to accept with both hands or say thank you; casual hospitality is common in provincial towns.
Always ask permission before taking close portraits, especially in markets, churches or during private events.
Safety
Tipping in Naval
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In small eateries and tricycle rides, rounding up the fare or leaving small change is common. For boatmen, guides and hotel staff, 50–200 PHP (around $1–4) depending on service is a polite gesture.
Cash (Philippine peso) is king in Naval. Most small businesses, markets and tricycle drivers do not accept cards. Some mid‑range hotels or restaurants may accept card or mobile payments, but don’t count on it — carry sufficient cash and small bills for market purchases and transport.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with high temperatures; sea conditions are generally calmer, making this a popular time for island hopping, beach activities and snorkeling. Bring sun protection, lightweight clothing and hydrate frequently.
Frequent afternoon rains and the active typhoon season (peak Aug–Oct) can disrupt travel plans, ferry schedules and outdoor activities. Monitor weather bulletins and be flexible with itineraries; inland trails can get muddy and waterfalls may be stronger and dangerous after heavy rain.
Slightly cooler and less humid, with clearer skies — a comfortable time to explore outdoors and visit local festivals during town fiestas and holiday events. Nights can be breezy; light layers are useful.
Naval at Night
Hiking in Naval
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A day hike to volcanic ridges and viewpoints offering panoramic island and sea views; trails vary in difficulty — hire a local guide and check conditions before attempting.
A short but steep climb on Sambawan Island rewards hikers with sweeping views of surrounding islets and clear water snorkel sites; combine with a boat trip for snorkeling.
Several short hikes lead to waterfalls and cascades in Biliran; trails can be muddy after rain so wear sturdy shoes and go with a local guide for the safest experience.
Airports
How to reach Naval by plane.
The closest major commercial airport with regular flights to Manila and other hubs. From Tacloban you can take a ferry or a combination of road and ferry to Naval — travel time varies by schedule and sea conditions (typically a few hours including transfer).
Some nearby towns have smaller regional airstrips with limited or charter services; check current schedules and connections. Ground and sea transfers are commonly used between these airstrips and Naval.
A major domestic and international hub. If arriving in Cebu, you can continue by flight to Tacloban or take ferry/boat + land transport combinations to reach Biliran and Naval; total travel time will be longer but connections are frequent.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents speak Waray‑Waray or Cebuano, with Tagalog and English widely understood in public spaces and among younger people.
Local demographics are dominated by families involved in fishing, small‑scale agriculture and trade — tight‑knit communities with strong local ties.
The area is predominantly Roman Catholic, and religious festivals and church events play an important role in community life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is the most popular sport across the Philippines, including Naval — small courts and pickup games are common in barangays and schools.
Fishing is both livelihood and recreation; during town fiestas, boat races or maritime events may be held, showcasing local skills.
Volleyball is also widely played in schools and barangays, often alongside community festivals and competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Naval.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are limited but manageable: order vegetable stews, grilled vegetables, plain rice, egg dishes and local salads. Communicate clearly (in Tagalog or simple English) that you don’t eat meat or fish; many carinderias will make a vegetable plate or egg omelette on request.
Vegan and strict gluten‑free choices are harder to find in small towns. Rely on fresh fruits, plain rice, steamed vegetables and ask vendors about sauces (fish sauce and shrimp paste are common). Bring snacks or specialty items if you have strict needs.
Because seafood dominates local menus and kitchens, cross‑contamination is likely. Clearly inform cooks and prefer simple vegetable or meat dishes if seafood allergy is severe.